6.9 / 10 (based on 420 reviews)
Arte was born into an aristocratic family in Florence during the 16th century Renaissance era. Being female, it was unheard of for one to become an artist. She is willing to cast aside her aristocratic lifestyle to become an artist.
Genre: Animation, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Mikako Komatsu, Mark Allen Jr., Felecia Angelle, Josh Bangle
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Shows Most Like Arte (2020)
Kakushigoto (2020)
7.4 / 10 (based on 879 reviews)
A writer of lewd stories tries to keep his work a secret from his innocent and unknowing daughter.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Hiroshi Kamiya, Rie Takahashi, Natsuki Hanae, Taku Yashiro
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Yesterday wo Utatte (2020)
6.9 / 10 (based on 849 reviews)
A college graduate with no ambition or dreams leads a meaningless life, but the arrival of possible romantic interests may give him hope.
Genre: Animation, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Chikahiro Kobayashi, Yume Miyamoto, Kana Hanazawa, Natsuki Hanae
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 18 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Wave, Listen to Me! (2020)
7 / 10 (based on 257 reviews)
From manga legend Hiroaki Samura, creator of Blade of the Immortal and Die Wergelder, comes something completely different, the journey of one disgruntled young woman’s journey into the wild rapids of talk radio.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Tia Lynn Ballard, Terri Doty, Christopher Sabat, Ian Sinclair
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Smile at the Runway (2020)
6.9 / 10 (based on 247 reviews)
Fujito Chiyuki has a dream: to become a Paris Collection model. The problem is, she’s too short to be a model, and everyone around her tells her so. But no matter what they say, she won’t give up. Her classmate, a poor student named Tsumura Ikuto, also has a dream: to become a fashion designer. One day Chiyuki tells him that it’s “probably impossible” for him, causing him to consider giving it up – ?. This is the story of two individuals wholeheartedly chasing after their dreams in spite of all the negativity that comes after them.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Natsuki Hanae, Yumiri Hanamori, Derick Snow, Macy Anne Johnson
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Appare-Ranman! (2020)
6.8 / 10 (based on 411 reviews)
In the late 19th century, two Japanese, an inventor and a samurai guard, get stranded in America. They enter a cross-country race from Los Angeles to New York to earn money to get home.
Genre: Animation, Adventure
Main Cast: Lin Gothoni, Suzie Yeung, Ivan Jasso, Emi Lo
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 13 episodes
Deca-Dence (2020)
7 / 10 (based on 1322 reviews)
Humanity was driven to the brink of extinction by unknown life forms Gadoll. Until one day, Natsume, a girl who dreams of becoming a warriors meets Kaburagi, an armor repairman. They will shake the future of this world.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Ben Balmaceda, Jordan Dash Cruz, Gabe Kunda, Alex Mai
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Gleipnir (2020)
6.8 / 10 (based on 1563 reviews)
Shuichi Kagaya is a high school student with an ability to transform into a monster costume. But when he rescues a fellow classmate, she forces him into a partnership to hunt down other monsters.
Genre: Animation, Action, Fantasy, Mystery
Main Cast: Brittney Karbowski, Ry McKeand, Michelle Marie, Kieran Flitton
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 13 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Rikei ga Koi ni Ochita no de Shoumei shitemita (2020)
6.9 / 10 (based on 872 reviews)
Two scientists seek to find if love can be solved by a scientific theory. They will find the answer in their own hearts and feelings.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Romance
Main Cast: Billy Kametz, Tara Sands, Sora Amamiya, Yuma Uchida
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 13 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
The Millionaire Detective: Balance – Unlimited (2020)
7.3 / 10 (based on 1974 reviews)
A rich but eccentric detective and a middle-class cop team up to solve cases in Tokyo.
Genre: Animation, Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Mamoru Miyano, Yûsuke Ohnuki, Maaya Sakamoto, Kazuyuki Okitsu
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 11 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Honzuki no Gekokujou (2019)
7.9 / 10 (based on 1197 reviews)
Urano, a young Japanese soon-to-be librarian, dies in an earthquake. She is reincarnated in another world as a young girl named Mayne, but learns that books are scarce and only provided to prestigious elites. Mayne (retaining her memories from her previous life) decides to create and print her own books so that she can read again.
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
Main Cast: Armen Taylor, Reba Buhr, Yuka Iguchi, Lizzie Freeman
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 28 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Princess Connect! Re: Dive (2020)
6.4 / 10 (based on 550 reviews)
The protagonist wakes up with no memories in an unfamiliar location. The protagonist then meets girls and comes closer to uncovering a hidden mystery.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
Main Cast: Mao Ichimichi, Miku Itou, Rika Tachibana
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 14 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Just Because (2017)
6.9 / 10 (based on 767 reviews)
Four highschool kids are ready for their university life,but with a new transfer student it all changes.
Genre: Animation, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Aoi Ichikawa, Karin Isobe, Taishi Murata, Yuna Yoshino
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
In the vast sea of anime, every so often, a show like “Arte” emerges, cutting through the noise with its unique premise and heartfelt storytelling. Released in 2020, “Arte” isn’t just another historical drama; it’s a vivid portrayal of the journey of an aspiring female artist in the Renaissance era, a time when societal norms and gender roles were heavily enforced, and the art world was no exception. This series, while under the radar for some, packs a powerful narrative about determination, passion, and breaking barriers.
The Premise
At its core, “Arte” follows the story of a young noblewoman, Arte Spalletti, who lives in Florence during the 16th century. Unlike most women of her time, Arte dreams of becoming an artist. This is no small feat, considering the era’s stringent views on a woman’s place in society, let alone in the male-dominated art world. After her father’s death, facing immense pressure to abandon her dreams and conform to societal expectations, Arte takes a bold step. She leaves her aristocratic life behind to pursue her passion for art, seeking apprenticeship under a renowned but somewhat eccentric artist, Leo.
Breaking Barriers
One of the show’s most compelling aspects is its focus on Arte’s relentless pursuit to carve a place for herself in the art world. Her journey is fraught with challenges, from the outright dismissal of her abilities because of her gender to the grueling demands of her apprenticeship under Leo. Yet, Arte’s determination never wavers. This resilience is not just inspiring but also reflective of the real-world struggles faced by many women across various fields, even today.
The show does an excellent job of not only highlighting Arte’s personal growth and determination but also showcasing the subtle shifts in the attitudes of those around her. From Leo, who initially takes her on as an apprentice more out of amusement than belief in her abilities, to other male artists and patrons who begin to see her as a legitimate artist, the series paints a hopeful picture of change and acceptance.
The Renaissance Setting
“Arte” is set against the backdrop of Renaissance Florence, a choice that adds layers of richness to the story. The Renaissance was a period of rebirth in art, culture, and philosophy, making it a fitting setting for a story about breaking free from societal constraints to pursue one’s passion. The show does a commendable job of weaving historical accuracy with its narrative, from the depiction of the city’s architecture and streets to the intricacies of the art being created. This attention to detail not only enriches the viewing experience but also serves as a subtle nod to the artists of the era who pushed the boundaries of creativity and expression.
Characters and Development
Beyond Arte, the series is populated with a host of characters, each bringing their own stories and struggles to the forefront. Leo, Arte’s mentor, is particularly noteworthy. Beneath his gruff exterior lies a complex character with his own past and reasons for becoming an artist. His relationship with Arte evolves beautifully over the series, from skepticism to genuine respect and mentorship. This dynamic is one of the show’s highlights, offering viewers a nuanced look at mentorship, growth, and mutual respect.
Other characters, such as Angelo, Arte’s childhood friend, and Veronica, a courtesan who becomes an unlikely ally and friend to Arte, add depth to the narrative. Their interactions with Arte provide different perspectives on the societal norms of the time and the various ways individuals navigate them.
Themes and Messages
At its heart, “Arte” is a story about perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of one’s dreams against all odds. However, it also touches on themes of gender equality, societal expectations, and the role of art in society. The show poses thought-provoking questions about the value of art and the sacrifices one is willing to make for their passion. It challenges the viewer to consider the impact of societal norms on individual choices and the importance of breaking free from those constraints to pursue personal fulfillment.
Why “Arte” Stands Out
In a medium often dominated by high-octane action sequences, fantasy worlds, and complex sci-fi plots, “Arte” stands out for its simplicity and the universality of its message. It’s a quiet yet powerful reminder of the importance of following one’s dreams, regardless of the obstacles. The historical setting, combined with the show’s focus on art and creativity, offers a refreshing change of pace from the typical anime fare.
Moreover, “Arte” is a beautifully animated series, with attention to detail that brings the Renaissance era to life. The animation style complements the story perfectly, capturing the beauty of the art and the period with grace and elegance.
Conclusion
“Arte” is a gem of a series that deserves more attention than it has received. Its story is both inspiring and thought-provoking, offering a captivating look at the life of a young woman determined to defy societal expectations and pursue her passion for art. With its rich historical setting, well-developed characters, and beautiful animation, “Arte” is a testament to the enduring power of art and the human spirit. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a lover of historical dramas, or simply in search of a story about perseverance and personal growth, “Arte” is a show that is sure to resonate.